ROBBIE Cowling has thanked Colchester United fans for their support of the club's Game for Ukraine.
The U's have raised more than £67,000 for the British Red Cross appeal for humanitarian aid which will go to those affected by Russia’s invasion of the Ukraine.
A crowd of 6,140 attended Colchester's game with Forest Green Rovers at the JobServe Community Stadium, last week.
Every penny of the £10 per person ticket price will be donated to the DEC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal, via the British Red Cross.
In addition, a JustGiving page set up after supporters who couldn't attend the game has raised nearly £6,000 for the appeal so far and will be kept open until the end of the season.
In a statement, Colchester chairman and owner Mr Cowling said: "I would like to thank everyone who provided support for our game against Forest Green Rovers which has so far enabled us to raise over £67,000 for humanitarian aid which will go to those affected by Russia’s invasion of the Ukraine.
"The past two years have been challenging and we face uncertain times ahead of us, so to get behind the game in such good numbers and to give so generously is very kind of you all and greatly appreciated.
"£61,400 was raised by the 6140 attendees who each paid £10 for their match tickets, and we will present a cheque for that amount to the Red Cross before our next home game against Stevenage.
"And so far, a further £5882 has generously been donated to the JustGiving page we created for those that wanted to support the game but could not attend on the night.
"Those funds are being directed straight to the Red Cross and we will leave that page open until the end of the season.
"The team wore a unique yellow and blue kit for that game, which resembled the Ukrainian national team’s kit.
"We will be auctioning each of the shirts worn by the playing squad to raise further funds.
"The exact details of the auction will be released later this week but as well as winning the shirt, the highest bidder for each shirt will receive a special invite to the last home game of the season against Walsall on the 30th April where we will present each of them with the prized shirts.
"Thanks again for the support you are showing for the U’s.
"Robbie."
To donate to the U's Just Giving campaign, click here.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here